This file was created to repeatably cut PTFE hotend tubes. If you're like me if you have to do something more than two times, I look for a way to speed up and make the process accurate. That, is what this tool does.
Here are the settings that I used:
- .15 mm layer height
- .4 mm nozzle
- 60% infill
- Rafts: No
- Supports: No
- 2 perimeter
- 3 Layers top and bottom
I used PLA, but there is no reason why whatever filament you happen to be using wouldn't work.
How to use this tool:
- Start by inserting a piece of PTFE tubing into the tubing holder. Allow the tube to protrude from the holder by approximately 15mm.
- Add the nut to the tubing holder and hand tighten the nut.
- Push the 15mm end of the tubing into the wide end of the jig so that the holder is tight to the outside edge of the jig.
- Using a new Exacto blade, install the blade into the slot in the jig so that the blade sits flat in the bottom of the jig.
- Slowly rotate the tubing and the holder clockwise when viewed from the holder side at least two revolutions. Note that the PTFE tube should begin cutting the end of the tubing.
- Once the tubing has been cut remove the tubing from the jig and loosen the nut on the tubing holder. Remove the holder from the length of tubing.
- Reinsert the freshly cut end of the tubing into the jig and press it fully in until the cut end seats in the opposite end of the jig.
- When the tubing is fully seated, use the Exacto to cut the tubing to length using the sidewall of the jig as a guide. This cuts the tubing to the required 42.3mm length.
- Using a sharp countersink, countersink the flat end of the tubing while still in the jig.
- When done, remove the tubing from the jig and remove and remaining debris that may be in the tubing.
Bob B
